Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

Sizzling Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe for Spicy Souls

Whipping up a delectable Cajun sausage and rice skillet brings bold Southern flavors right to your dinner table.

Spicy andouille sausage sizzles alongside tender rice, creating a one-pan meal packed with zesty character.

Louisiana’s culinary heritage shines through each mouthwatering bite of this hearty dish.

Aromatic seasonings dance across your palate with vibrant heat and depth.

Comfort meets excitement in this simple yet sophisticated recipe that promises to satisfy hungry appetites.

Quick preparation meets maximum flavor in this weeknight wonder that will become a household favorite.

You’ll devour every single savory spoonful and ask for seconds.

Dive into this irresistible Cajun classic that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet Highlights

Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet Highlights
  • Spice Up Your Meal: Dive into a flavor explosion with bold Cajun seasoning that transforms ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering experience.
  • Simplify Cooking: Prepare a complete one-skillet meal that combines protein, vegetables, and rice without complicated techniques or multiple pots.
  • Quick Family Dinner: Whip up a satisfying and hearty meal in under 30 minutes that appeals to both adults and kids with its delicious blend of sausage and rice.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap sausage types, adjust spice levels, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe perfectly suited to your family's taste preferences.

Ingredients for Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet

Protein:
  • Sausage: A flavorful Cajun-style sausage that adds richness and spice to the dish.
  • Chicken Broth: Provides a savory liquid base for cooking the rice and enhancing overall flavor.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables that create a classic Cajun flavor foundation.
  • Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic element to the skillet.
  • Frozen Peas: Brings a pop of color and subtle sweetness to the final dish.
  • Green Onions: Fresh garnish that adds a light, crisp finish.
Seasonings and Pantry Staples:
  • Rice: The main starch that absorbs all the delicious Cajun flavors.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a slight tangy brightness to the skillet.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and preventing ingredients from sticking.
  • Cajun Seasoning, Paprika, Thyme, Black Pepper, Salt: A blend of spices that creates the signature Cajun taste profile.

How to Make Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet

How to Make Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sizzle Sausage Slices

Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat.

Slide sliced sausage into the pan and cook until edges turn golden brown and crispy.

The sausage will release delicious flavors that make the kitchen smell amazing.

Step 2: Awaken Aromatic Vegetables

Toss in diced onion and bell pepper, dancing them around the skillet until they become soft and translucent.

Sprinkle minced garlic and let it sizzle for a quick 30 seconds, releasing its fragrant essence.

Step 3: Build Flavor Foundation

Add these ingredients to the skillet:
  • Uncooked rice
  • Chicken broth
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Paprika
  • Thyme
  • Black pepper
  • Salt

Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Lower the heat, cover the skillet with a tight lid, and let the rice gently simmer for 18-20 minutes.

The rice will absorb all the incredible spices and become wonderfully tender.

Step 5: Final Veggie Touch

If desired, fold in frozen peas and let them warm through for 2 minutes, adding a pop of color and sweetness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Pull the skillet off the heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and sprinkle chopped green onions on top.

Serve piping hot and watch everyone dig in with excitement.

Notes That Help Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet

  • Add extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce for those who love spicier dishes.
  • Avoid lifting the lid while cooking to ensure the rice absorbs liquid evenly and becomes perfectly fluffy.
  • Replace sausage with chicken, shrimp, or plant-based alternatives to suit different dietary preferences.
  • Chop vegetables and measure spices beforehand to streamline cooking process and reduce total preparation time.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and restore original texture.

Bold Spins on Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet

  • Vegetarian Jambalaya: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or extra firm tofu, using vegetable broth for added flavor complexity.
  • Seafood Louisiana Skillet: Swap sausage with shrimp or crawfish, adding extra seafood seasoning for authentic coastal taste.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Edition: Substitute rice with riced cauliflower, maintaining Cajun spice profile while reducing carbohydrate content.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly Version: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, particularly checking Cajun seasoning and broth labels for potential wheat contamination.

Good Pairings with Cajun Sausage Skillet

  • Spicy Side Kick: Pair this zesty Cajun skillet with a cool, crisp coleslaw to balance the heat and add refreshing crunch.
  • Protein Power-Up: Top with grilled shrimp or blackened chicken for an extra protein boost that complements the sausage's rich flavor.
  • Bread Buddy: Serve alongside warm, buttered cornbread or crusty French bread to soak up the delicious sauce and add a comforting touch.
  • Green Scene: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a bright, herbal note that cuts through the dish's robust spiciness.

Keep Cajun Sausage Skillet Fresh Longer

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer cooled dish to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal well, and freeze for 2-3 months. Label with date and contents for easy tracking.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add 1-2 tablespoons water to prevent drying. Cover with damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

  • What are the key spices in this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?

The key spices are Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, black pepper, and salt, which create the signature bold and spicy flavor profile typical of Cajun cuisine.

  • Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute andouille sausage with smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even chicken sausage depending on your preference and availability.

  • Is this recipe considered a one-pot meal?

Absolutely! This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a complete one-pot meal that combines protein, rice, and vegetables in a single skillet, making cooking and cleanup quick and easy.

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Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe


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4.6 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Zesty Cajun sausage and rice skillet brings spicy Southern comfort to dinner tables. Hearty Louisiana-style ingredients combine for a quick, flavorful meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) smoked sausage, sliced

Vegetables:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces / 410 grams) diced tomatoes, undrained

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Sear andouille sausage in hot skillet over medium-high heat until caramelized edges develop, approximately 4-5 minutes.
  2. Incorporate aromatic trinity of onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Introduce long-grain rice, creating a golden toasted layer by stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to enhance flavor profile.
  4. Pour chicken broth and diced tomatoes into skillet, seasoning generously with robust Cajun spice blend, paprika, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
  5. Bring liquid to rolling boil, then immediately reduce heat to low, covering skillet tightly with lid to trap steam and ensure even cooking.
  6. Simmer undisturbed for 15-18 minutes, allowing rice to absorb liquid and develop perfect tender texture.
  7. Gently fold in vibrant green peas during final 2 minutes of cooking, providing burst of color and additional nutrition.
  8. Remove from heat, let rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff rice with fork to separate grains.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions, serving immediately while piping hot for maximum flavor enjoyment.

Notes

  • Customize spice levels by adjusting Cajun seasoning for milder or more intense flavor profiles.
  • Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content and make the dish heart-healthier.
  • Swap traditional rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative that maintains the recipe’s vibrant Cajun essence.
  • Ensure sausage browns evenly by avoiding overcrowding the skillet, allowing proper caramelization and developing rich, deep flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 930 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 19 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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